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NC Innovations Waiver: A Delayed Lifeline
The NC Innovations Waiver is a Medicaid program designed to offer individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to live in community settings rather than institutional facilities. However, in Mecklenburg County, the wait for these vital services can be as long as ten years. Statewide, over 17,000 people are on the Registry of Unmet Needs, eligible but not yet receiving these services.
The NC General Assembly, as the gatekeepers of these waiver slots, allocates them through the state budget. While 300 new slots were added last year, this falls far short of meeting the overwhelming demand.
One major reason cited for the limited expansion of waiver slots is a shortage of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). However, a significant factor contributing to this shortage is the insufficient pay rate funded by Medicaid. Despite the rewarding nature of the work, the current compensation for DSPs does not adequately reflect the challenging duties they perform.
You can help us by writing to your representative. Use the button below to find your NC Representatives. A sample email can be found below.
Dear Representative [Representative's Name],
I am writing to express my deep concern about the ongoing shortage of NC Innovations Waiver slots in Mecklenburg County and across the state. As you know, this program provides vital services to individuals with intellectual disabilities, enabling them to live in community settings rather than institutional facilities.
Unfortunately, the current wait times for these services are excessively long, causing significant hardship for affected individuals and their families. The Registry of Unmet Needs currently lists over 17,000 people who are eligible for the NC Innovations Waiver but have not yet received services.
I urge you to prioritize the expansion of NC Innovations Waiver slots in the upcoming state budget. By allocating additional funds, we can help alleviate the burden on individuals and families who are desperately waiting for these essential services.
Moreover, I believe that increasing funding for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) is crucial to addressing the shortage of available waiver slots. The current pay rate for DSPs does not adequately compensate them for the challenging and rewarding work they perform. By providing a more competitive wage, we can attract and retain qualified DSPs to support individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to your continued efforts to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities in North Carolina.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address]